Visit Kobe City hall, a 30-story building in the heart of Kobe. While the many staff in the building work diligently to meet the needs of city residents and guests, the structure is most appreciated for its exceptional observation deck. This floor has a café and a restaurant for a relaxing break during the day.
Make a trip to Kobe City Hall for views from the free observation deck on the 24th floor, about 330 feet (100 meters) above street level. Look south over Flower Road to see the large developed Port Island in the water and tall Kobe Port Tower rising from Meriken Park. In the northeastern direction, Mount Rokko rises to about 3,000 feet (900 meters) of elevation.
Just south of City Hall is Kobe East Park. Take a break here to walk or sit on terraced steps in the shade of pretty trees. Look for the Kobe Light of Hope, an eternal flame honoring the victims of the devastating Great Hanshin Earthquake of 1995. Also in the park is the flower clock. Thousands of seasonal flowers are planted as a decorative background to clock hands. Each design lasts for one to two months. Prior patterns have included anime characters, festival mascots, celebratory logos and more.
Get to City Hall by taking the train to Sannomiya station and walking south for about 6 minutes. Alternatively, purchase a day pass to ride the Kobe City Loop bus, which stops at City Hall, Harborland, Meriken Park and many other popular tourist spots. Showing your bus pass provides discounted entrance rates for numerous attractions.
The Kobe City Hall observation deck is open daily until late in the evening. While you are in this part of the city, walk to the Kobe City Museum, Ikuta Shrine or Nankinmachi, the city’s Chinatown. All are within 20 minutes on foot.
